Europe Fresh Food Packaging Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032

According to this report, the Europe fresh food packaging market size reached a value of USD 11.21 billion in 2023. Aided by the diverse culinary heritage and consumer preferences, the market is projected to further grow at a CAGR of 2.6% between 2024 and 2032 to reach a value of USD 14.19 billion by 2032.

The Europe fresh food packaging market growth is driven by a multitude of factors, chief among them being the evolving consumer preferences towards healthy and nutritious food choices. With a growing awareness of the importance of fresh produce in maintaining a balanced diet, consumers are increasingly gravitating towards fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products. This paradigm shift has spurred demand for innovative packaging solutions that can extend the shelf life of perishable goods while ensuring food safety and quality.

As per the Europe fresh food packaging market analysis, stringent regulatory standards and sustainability concerns have catalysed the adoption of eco-friendly packaging materials across the region. As consumers become more environmentally conscious, there is a growing demand for packaging solutions that are recyclable, biodegradable, and minimise carbon footprint. This has led to a surge in the development of bio-based packaging materials derived from renewable sources such as plant-based polymers and compostable materials.

As per the Europe fresh food packaging market outlook, Europe is witnessing a proliferation of advanced packaging technologies aimed at enhancing the shelf life and freshness of perishable goods. Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP), active packaging, and intelligent packaging systems are gaining traction, offering features such as moisture control, gas permeability, and real-time monitoring of food conditions.

In line with shifting consumer lifestyles characterised by on-the-go consumption habits, there is a growing demand for convenient and portable packaging formats which fuels the Europe fresh food packaging market expansion. Single-serve packs, resealable pouches, and portion-controlled packaging options are becoming increasingly popular, catering to the needs of busy urban dwellers and households.

With the rise of e-commerce platforms and direct-to-consumer sales channels, there is a growing emphasis on customisation and personalization in fresh food packaging. Brands are leveraging digital printing technologies to create unique packaging designs, tailored messaging, and interactive QR codes, thereby enhancing brand engagement and consumer experience.

As sustainability emerges as a key driver of consumer purchasing decisions, there is a growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions in the Europe fresh food packaging market. Packaging manufacturers are investing in research and development to innovate eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastic packaging, including compostable films, paper-based trays, and bio-based coatings.

With the advent of the Internet of Things (IoT) technology, smart packaging solutions are gaining momentum in the market. These innovative packaging solutions incorporate sensors, RFID tags, and intelligent tracking systems to provide real-time information on product freshness, temperature variations, and shelf life, thereby enhancing transparency and traceability throughout the supply chain.

As health and wellness continue to be paramount concerns for consumers, there is a growing demand for packaging solutions that align with these values which boosts the Europe fresh food packaging market share. Functional packaging formats, such as portion-controlled packs, on-pack nutritional labelling, and tamper-evident seals, are gaining popularity, providing consumers with added confidence in the safety and quality of fresh food products.

Market Segmentation

The market can be divided based on food type, packaging type, material, and country.

Market Breakup by Food Type

• Poultry and Meat Products
• Dairy Products
• Vegetables and Fruits
• Seafood
• Others

Market Breakup by Packaging Type

• Rigid
• Flexible

Market Breakup by Material

• Plastic
• Metal
• Glass
• Paper and Paperboard
• Others

Market Breakup by Country

• Germany
• United Kingdom
• France
• Italy
• Others

Competitive Landscape

The report looks into the market shares, plant turnarounds, capacities, investments, and mergers and acquisitions, among other major developments, of the leading companies operating in the Europe fresh food packaging market. Some of the major players explored in the report are as follows:

• Mondi Plc
• Amcor PLC
• Stora Enso Oyj
• International Paper Company
• DS Smith Plc
• Tetra Laval Group
• Smurfit Kappa Group Plc
• Schur International
• UPM-Kymmene Corp.
• FFP Packaging Ltd.
• Others